As the sector’s journey towards net-zero carbon emissions becomes more turbulent, the flightpath may require some pragmatic course corrections – from leveraging regional dynamics to securing additional policy support. Nevertheless, as leaders of the World Economic Forum’s aviation community – driving initiatives such as Airports of Tomorrow , the First Movers Coalition and Green Fuel Forward – we remain committed to advancing sustainable aviation, regionally and globally. The destination has not changed. The latest Assembly of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) remained firm in its commitment to net-zero aviation by 2050 and its 2030 vision. To get there, the industry will need to develop and commercialize cleaner fuels, spearhead the transformation of airports into economic, digital and energy hubs, and expand market mechanisms such as book-and-claim. Every actor in the sector will need to play their part in the coming year – including airports, airlines, fuel producers and suppliers, ground handlers, infrastructure companies, financiers, aircraft manufacturers, corporate travellers, innovators, academia and, more than ever, governments. Where there is fragmentation, we should remind ourselves that aviation is about connectivity. In today’s world, bringing people together has never been more important. Scaling-up collaboration across industries and regions remains essential to level the playing field for sustainable investment and ultimately to reduce the cost of the transition to net zero. There will be upsides along this journey. It is more important than ever to remember that investment in clean aviation means more jobs, better skills, new economic opportunities and greater energy security – topics that continue to gain attention and support across regions. This can only be achieved if industry and governments continue to work constructively together. During 2026, this collaboration should prioritize the establishment of clear and simple regulations aligned across regions, more transparent fuel supply chains, interoperable book- and-claim mechanisms, greater knowledge-sharing between peers, and better access to affordable clean energy and resources. Along with dedicated financial incentives and better risk management, making progress on these priorities will help unlock the new clean technologies the sector needs, both on the ground and in the air. With this pragmatic approach, imbued with a spirit of dialogue and collaboration, we look forward to continuing together as a community to accelerate the journey towards aviation sustainability. Global Aviation Sustainability Outlook 2026 7